Few people understood the power of linking collections and archives better than the late Robert S. Schriebman. An avid collector of World War II memorabilia—especially related to the legendary Flying Tigers—Robert recognized that the real story of history lives where the tangible and the documented meet.

Over decades of generosity, beginning in 1978, he donated both artifacts and archival materials to the Museum, ensuring that curators and archivists alike could preserve and interpret the complete history of the items he entrusted to us. His contributions included uniforms, photographs, documents, and personal accounts, each providing the vital context that transforms an artifact into a complete historical narrative.

Robert was more than a collector—he was a respected tax attorney, a professor, and the author of 11 books and more than 600 articles. He was deeply embedded in the Flying Tigers community, regularly attending their reunions and forming friendships with these famous aviators. Those connections not only enriched his understanding of their history but also informed his most notable professional contribution to their legacy: successfully representing the Flying Tigers in their effort to receive formal U.S. Veteran Status, along with Consairway pilots. This recognition honored their service and secured their place in the nation’s military history.

Robert’s passing is a profound loss for our Museum community. His dedication, knowledge, and generosity strengthened both our Library & Archives and Curatorial collections, and his advocacy for the Flying Tigers stands as a testament to his passion for history, justice, and preserving the truth for future generations.